Agbonlahor praise for Benteke

Gabriel Agbonlahor believes Aston Villa are the envy of a number of their Barclays Premier League rivals given the form of team-mate Christian Benteke.

The Belgium international has been one of Villa's few success stories in what has been a season of struggle as the club fight relegation. Signed from Genk on transfer deadline day at the end of August for £7million, the 22-year-old has bagged 15 goals for Villa, including six in his last five appearances.

Agbonlahor has been amazed at how well Benteke has settled at the club, describing him as "one of the best" he has played alongside. Agbonlahor told the club's official website: "He's come into the league and no-one knew much about him. He's just adapted. Every aspect of his game is top quality."

He continued: "He works hard in training and look at the way he plays the game - his composure is excellent, he has presence as a big guy and he has quite a bit of pace.

"He's having a great first season in the Premier League and he's only going to get better for us with each successive season he's here. He's learning his trade here and he's enjoying his football. A lot of teams in the Premier League would love to have him in their side."

A question mark, however, is currently hanging over boss Paul Lambert as to whether he will be able to hang on to Benteke this summer. The suggestion Benteke will leave if Villa are relegated, but then even if the club retain their top-flight status they may struggle to keep him.

Agent Erik Kismet stirred the pot on Monday when he said: "It is normal if you go to a club and do well, then other clubs will show an interest.

"Christian has shown he can play in England, so why not take the step up to the next level if the opportunity is there?

"At the end of the season, interested clubs will talk to Villa, but it has to be right for Villa, the buying club and Christian.

"If all three parties are agreeable, something could happen, but right now his focus is on Villa, helping them stay in the Premier League."